Setting an Example with Its Healthy Campus Model
Having qualified last year for the “Nutrition-Friendly and Physical Activity-Supportive Workplace” certificate through exemplary practices aimed at improving young people’s quality of life under its “Healthy Campus” model, Izmir University of Economics (IUE) underwent its annual assessment in August by Dr. Ece Özkan and Dietitian Şeyma Aksoy from the certification team of the Izmir Provincial Directorate of Health. Carrying out campus-wide initiatives in a wide range of areas, from reducing plastic use to supporting social development, IUE continued its commitment to promoting healthy nutrition and physical activity in the workplace.
Izmir University of Economics has further strengthened its Healthy Campus project with new initiatives designed to support the physical, social and mental well-being of its students and staff. Adopting a holistic model that brings together physical and mental health, sustainability, healthy nutrition and an active lifestyle under one framework, IUE has also increased the number of sporting activities and tournaments held across the University.
CAMPUS FOOD OUTLETS REGULARLY INSPECTED
The fitness centre on campus is available free of charge to students, academics and administrative staff. Eye-catching and informative visuals have also been placed at various locations across the campus to raise awareness among students and staff about healthy eating. Food and beverage outlets operating on campus are evaluated in line with the Healthy Campus criteria. The preparation, storage and serving of food are also examined as part of the inspection process.
‘BRING YOUR OWN CUP’ INITIATIVE TAKES A STAND AGAINST PLASTIC
IUE has also integrated sustainability into its healthy living approach by launching the “Bring Your Own Cup” initiative to reduce the use of single-use plastics. Students and staff who purchase beverages from campus outlets using their own reusable cups are offered various discounts and rewards. During the inspections conducted by officials from the Izmir Provincial Directorate of Health, all of these initiatives, particularly the physical activity programmes implemented at IUE over the past year, were reviewed in detail. Having successfully completed the assessment, IUE has taken another important step towards turning its Healthy Campus approach into a permanent and sustainable part of campus culture.
“WE WANT THEM TO FEEL HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER”
IUE Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Aslı Ceylan Öner emphasised that university years also play an important role in shaping young people’s lifestyle habits. “We do not see our students’ university years simply as a period in which they attend classes and graduate. University life is also a very special stage in which young people develop their lifestyle habits, discover themselves and decide what kind of life they want to lead in the future. We therefore want to create a campus environment where they can feel healthier and happier. This idea lies at the heart of our Healthy Campus approach. “We value a campus life where our students and staff can stay active, socialise, make time for themselves, make healthy choices and develop greater awareness of their environment. These may seem like small steps, but they have a direct and meaningful impact on everyday life. As a university, we will continue to advance our work in this area with determination. “I would also like to thank our esteemed academics Prof. Dr. Ayşın Zeytinoğlu, Prof. Dr. Oğuz Kılınç and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özden Gökdemir, as well as all members of our Healthy Campus Committee, whose dedicated efforts have contributed greatly to the University’s achievements in this field,” she said.
